Prayer for October 11, 2017

Every generous act of giving, with every perfect gift, is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.

—James 1.17

Today in Richard Rohr’s devotional, James Finley is talking bout the great mystic, John of the Cross. My professor of Church History, Dr. Ted Campbell, has helped me over the years to appreciate the Martyrs, Saints and Mystics; and this has heightened my curiosity. What are we asking when we pray for God’s will on earth as in heaven? Listen to Finley’s description of what it means to be one with God:

“God's will for you is Godself. When you, in the freedom of your will, want nothing but what God wills—that is, you live by and for the ever-deepening consummation of this union in love—then these two wills are united in love.

Our spiritual task is to discern the ways in which our heart is at variance with God's heart. We see how our own subjective perceptions and intentions are compromised or violate our ultimate destiny in love. By this graced recognition, we are released and liberated.”

In our book, Pray. Act. Pray Again., Dr. Diane Martin and I are trying to encourage action that is bookended with prayers. The state of our world today is filled with anxiety. Everyone has an opinion—diversity is well represented. What if we were to ask God what God wants each of us, as diverse beings, to do? Mother Teresa posits: “The very fact that God has placed a certain soul in our way is a sign that God wants us to do something for him or her. It is not a chance; it has been planned by God. We are bound by conscience to help him or her.” So if I think of Finely’s direction, to discern the ways in which our heart is at variance with God's heart, I am seriously convicted. If my job is “help” and not to judge harshly, how would that look? I would be very interested in any insights you gain from prayer and meditation.

Prayer recap: Dear Lord, Help us to discern the ways in which our heart is at variance with Your heart. Help us to feel a sense of oneness with you that blesses even those with whom we disagree. Amen.